Six years ago, the author shared some strategies on managing a cutback ("Budget Shortfalls," "Library Journal" 5/15/03, p. 34-35). Now, people are in an even more severe economic downturn. In this article, the author offers some additional tips on how to cope with more budget shortfalls during this recession.

Traces the development of microforms in terms of library and user needs. Nine functions of microforms, which are widely used because each serves a particular need, are indicated. (KP)

The Oklahoma County Libraries System in Oklahoma City converted its five bookmobiles from hardbound to paperbound materials in 1975. The conversion has been a notable success, proving popular with patrons and proving low cost and efficient for the library system. (Author)

Results of a study at the University of Pittsburgh library to determine the extent to which library materials are used and the full cost of such use are presented. Use and nonuse of books, cost of book use, and journal use and nonuse are described. (Author/KP)

Deplores the concept of the no-growth library and proposes the development of an effective national interlibrary lending network. Use studies are viewed as unprofitable as growth policy determinants, and interlibrary loan networks are seen as necessary to prevent libraries from becoming an endangered species. (RAA)

Describes the results of a study undertaken to try to refute the findings of a book use study at the University of Pittsburgh (Library Journal, November 15, 1977) when applied to a smaller community college. Most of the findings of this study are compatible with the first study, however, and the dissimilarities are those of detail rather than…

This essay offers a step-by-step tool which librarians can use with appropriate data to determine the success of a branch library in reaching the potential user, or for indicating population needs not being satisfied. (Author/KP)

Do's and don'ts for reference librarians trying to fulfill the information needs of the library user. (5 references) (NH)

Presents the results of a 1971 survey of the demographic characteristics of the adult population of North Carolina as they relate to library use. Each of 14 tables of data is accompanied by a short discussion, and the average library user as depicted by the data is described. (JVP)

Discusses a public library system program that provides free public access to microcomputers, noting justification, objectives, equipment specifications, uses and software, staff training, policies and procedures, program implementation, and users. Eight references are listed. (EJS)

Discusses the discrepancies in results from library utilization studies which preclude comparison of data, and recommends the standardization of definitions and methodology to enable valuable comparisons across libraries. (JVP)

The needs of users and nonusers in the Piedmont area of North Carolina for nontraditional library services, e.g., nonprint materials and community information and referral, are investigated by a survey of 251 residents. (Author/KP)

An experiment conducted to determine the effects of a changeover to paperback collections and browsing arrangement on cost of bookmobile service and use of materials. (KP)

Summarizes use statistics for the first year of search activity for the Kansas City Libraries Metropolitan Information Network (MINET). Included are databases searched, types of participating libraries, patron status, search systems used, charges, nonpaid searches, and referrals. (SW)

The Molesworth Institute conducted a year long experiment on the shelving practices of two academic libraries of comparable size, with similar user populations. Results show that the practice of leaving the middle two shelves empty for future expansion cannot be recommended. Measurements include accumulation of dirt; usage; and incidents of…